A Brief Explanations of the Soot Analysis Process

Soot analysis is done to determine how much airborne particles are being given off and affecting the environment, the climate and, in turn, the health of all living beings. Much of the analysis is done with an energy dispersive X-ray system that micro-analyzes the particles. The system is also called SEM/EDS.

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The system utilizes an electron microscope that scans particles in order to determine their size or density. The soot that is analyzed sometimes comes through the pyrolysis process. When this process is done, organic materials are decomposed in a chemical treatment. After the process is complete, there is often a formation of soot.

Putting the soot through a thorough analysis better indicates the environmental impact the pyrolysis procedure is having especially where the compounds that are being put through the pyrolysis is concerned. Most of the time the concern arises when coal is put through this procedure.

Different coals will naturally give off different results as to the soot derived from their combustion. There are other ways to test the soot besides using the electron microscope or EDX. Some results can be obtained by weighing the soot particles or by using a special video camera to see how fast the particles travel.

Many explanations of the soot analysis process are complex and scholoarly. In general the processes of pyrolysis are becoming more widespread as newer forms of energy and ways to burn various energy come into being.

While these newer ways of creating energy are being developed, it is important to make sure of their safety as far as the environment and climate are concerned. With soot anaylsis, this form of examination takes the pyrolysis elements one step further towards being safe and efficient means of new, more resourceful forms of energy and power.